Hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is unusually heavy bleeding after birth. The amount of blood loss that is considered unusual depends on if you had a vaginal or cesarean birth. Primary postpartum hemorrhage occurs within 24 hours of birth. Secondary postpartum hemorrhage occurs after 24 hours. Most postpartum hemorrhage happens without a known reason. Other reasons may be twins, if you have high blood pressure or the delivery of the placenta was difficult. If you have had a postpartum hemorrhage, your recovery may take longer than normal. Iron deficiency anemia is a common consequence of postpartum hemorrhage therefore the recovery process involves efforts to increase your iron levels. The Association of Ontario Midwives has detailed client-focused information on experiencing postpartum hemorrhage and the recovery process. Please see the resources below.

• Association of Ontario Midwives - Two stories of birth and postpartum hemorrhage

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• Association of Ontario Midwives - Life after postpartum hemorrhage: recovering from the unexpected

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• March Of Dimes - Postpartum Hemorrhage

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• Baby Center - Postpartum Hemorrhage